Island News dives deep with Hawaii Kai non-profit bringing coral reefs back to life | News [Video]

HAWAII KAI, Hawaii (Island News) — Hawaii beaches and reefs bring in millions of visitors each year, and billions of dollars.

A study commissioned by NOAA estimates the total economic value for the coral reefs of the main Hawaiian Islands is $33.57 billion. 

One non-profit in Hawaii Kai, Ocean Alliance Project, is taking steps to protect and build back the reefs surrounding Oahu. 

Our scuba certified reporter, Kimber Collins, went under the surface with the group to see the action. 

Experienced divers spent four days in Maunalua Bay measuring, counting and collecting data.

The divers searched for signs of a healthy reef, such as cushion sea stars and urchins, known as “indicator species.”